By Ben Kerrigan-
A retired Russian general who penned a formidable ‘war bible.’ Major-General Alexander Vladimirov, the author of Russia’s three-volume tome known as the “General Theory of War,” which spans a staggering 2,856 pages, has warned that the use of nuclear weapons by Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Ukraine war is “inevitable.”
This ominous statement raises concerns about the escalating crisis and the potential for a catastrophic escalation.
A Terrifying ‘War Bible’
Major-General Alexander Vladimirov,(pictured) now 78 years old, is no ordinary military strategist. His comprehensive work, the “General Theory of War,” is considered a fundamental guide to Russian military thought.
It delves into the intricacies of warfare, strategy, and the use of weapons, providing invaluable insights into the Russian military mindset. Vladimirov’s writings have been instrumental in shaping the strategies and tactics of the Russian armed forces.
However, it is not just his credentials that make his recent statement alarming. It is the content of his warning that has sent shockwaves through international diplomatic circles.
Vladimirov emphasized the critical importance of training Russian troops to “wage war under the conditions of the use of weapons of mass destruction.” This stark declaration implies that the Russian military is actively preparing for the deployment of nuclear weapons.
Lessons from the ‘War Bible’
Vladimirov’s “General Theory of War” is more than just a military manual; it contains profound lessons and principles that shape Russian military doctrine and strategy. Among these teachings is a rather ominous message: “If you want a long and strong peace, bury the hatchet on the territory of the enemy along with him.” This suggests a willingness to engage in protracted conflicts and a disregard for peaceful resolutions.
Furthermore, Vladimirov’s emphasis on the need for preparedness extends beyond the military realm. He calls for the readiness of the entire nation, encompassing not only the armed forces but also the state, the economy, and the population. This comprehensive approach underscores the seriousness of his warnings and the potential for a prolonged and devastating conflict.
Putin’s Nuclear Gambit
The prospect of Putin resorting to nuclear weapons in the Ukraine war is a dire scenario with far-reaching global implications. It raises a series of critical questions and concerns:
The use of nuclear weapons by Russia in Ukraine would undoubtedly trigger a severe international backlash. The world has not witnessed the use of nuclear weapons in conflict since World War II, and such an event would reshape global politics and security dynamics. with its extremely devastating with its devastating effects on Japan’s Hiroshima and Nagasaki, an immutable and unforgettable blotch in international relations; such an event would would again more acutely reshape global politics and security dynamics.
The humanitarian consequences of a nuclear conflict in Ukraine would be catastrophic. The loss of life, environmental damage, and long-term health effects would be devastating for both Ukraine and neighboring countries.
Escalation Risk
The use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine could lead to a dangerous escalation, drawing in other nuclear-armed states and risking a broader global conflict. It is a scenario that world leaders have worked tirelessly to prevent for decades.
Finding a diplomatic solution to the Ukraine crisis would become immensely challenging in the aftermath of a nuclear exchange. Rebuilding trust and negotiations would be fraught with difficulties.
Nuclear Deterrence: Putin’s willingness to use nuclear weapons raises questions about the effectiveness of nuclear deterrence in the modern world. It challenges the longstanding belief that nuclear-armed states refrain from using such weapons due to the principle of mutually assured destruction (MAD).
Vladimirov’s chilling warning coincides with statements from Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, who claimed that Russia has been inflicting significant damage on Ukraine. Shoigu reported that Russia had destroyed 34 Ukrainian army command points and inflicted heavy losses on Ukrainian forces, including casualties and destroyed ammunition. These claims are part of Russia’s efforts to project strength in the ongoing conflict.
Ukraine’s ‘Super Missile’
Meanwhile, Ukraine has been making headlines with the development of a new ‘super missile.’ This advanced weapon system reportedly succeeded in neutralizing a Russian air defense system. The introduction of such cutting-edge military technology underscores Ukraine’s determination to defend its sovereignty.
The Global Response
The international community is closely monitoring the situation in Ukraine, and Vladimirov’s warning has amplified concerns. Diplomatic efforts, economic sanctions, and military aid to Ukraine have been central to the response.
However, the prospect of nuclear weapons being used in the conflict has raised the stakes significantly.
In the face of these alarming developments, several critical steps should be taken
Diplomatic efforts to resolve the Ukraine crisis should be intensified. The involvement of international mediators and the United Nations may be crucial in finding a peaceful solution.
The potential use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine highlights the urgent need for reaffirming and strengthening global commitments to nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament.
International organizations and neighboring countries may need to prepare for the possibility of a humanitarian crisis in the event of a nuclear conflict in Ukraine.
Some analysts believe a renewed dialogue on global security, including nuclear deterrence and disarmament need to be initiated to address the evolving challenges of the modern world.
The specter of nuclear weapons being used in the Ukraine war is a deeply troubling prospect that demands attention and action from the international community.
” Sergei Karaganov, honorary chairman of Russia’s Council on Foreign and Defense Policy, once suggested in an article published in the middle of June that “this military operation [in Ukraine] cannot end with a decisive victory without forcing the West to retreat strategically, or even surrender.”
Karaganov said in the article that it is necessary to scare the West with Russia’s willingness to use nuclear weapons, and then possibly “hit a bunch of targets in a number of countries in order to bring those who have lost their mind to reason.” Karaganov summarized his point by saying that, in a war, the winners are not judged.
Previous calls to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine have been made by Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev also regularly hints at such a scenario. But the direct advocation of a nuclear war by Karaganov—a member of Russia’s mainstream expert community—obliged other members of that community to weigh in.
Research by the independent pollster Levada Center revealed that 86 percent of Russians believe nuclear weapons should not be used in Ukraine under any circumstances.
Putin
The lessons of history and the principles of peace and diplomacy must guide our response to prevent a catastrophic escalation of the conflict. The world is watching, and the stakes have never been higher.